The study of languages has become essential to the education of global citizens as
the world becomes more and more internationally connected, and as individual nations
become increasingly diverse. The Department offers comprehensive introductory through
advanced level classes in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish as
well as courses in the Self-instructional Language Program in Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi,
Korean, Portuguese, and Russian. To be able to communicate effectively with people
from different parts of the world is not only a lifelong skill that enhances the individual’s
ability to think outside the boundaries of his or her native culture; it is also a
practical skill that can be applied to any line of work. Global citizenship does not
end at language proficiency, however: our upper-level classes are designed to deepen
the student’s familiarity with the culture in which the target language is embedded.
By discussing written and visual texts in that language, students will both enhance
their linguistic skills and develop a more refined consciousness of the culture’s
traditions and behaviors. Our goal is to develop in our students a cultural competency
that will allow them to enter the world aware of how they relate to and approach other
cultures, so that they are prepared to use their knowledge and abilities in whatever
field interests them.